🦶 Zone 1,2 – Heel Center (Central Calcaneus)

This zone is the center of the calcaneus — the rearward midpoint of the heel, typically the default point of contact in quiet standing.

🔬 Anatomical Role

• Bears maximum weight during upright standing

• Primary contact during walking heel strike

• Directly loads the calcaneal tuberosity

• No muscle originates or inserts directly beneath

🔬 Muscle & Tendon Support

| Structure | Type | Action | Relevance |

|-----------|------|--------|-----------|

| Achilles tendon (insertion) | Tendon | Transfers calf muscle force | Indirect rear support |

| Calcaneal fat pad | Tissue | Absorbs shock | Primary cushioning |

| Plantar fascia (central band) | Fascia | Passive arch support | Contributes to forward support |

⚙️ Biomechanical Function

• Excellent for load-bearing

• Absorbs impact during heel strike

• No rotational resistance or torque generation

• Lacks proprioception detail — low feedback

🧠 Verdict

• Torque Handling: ❌ None

• Muscle Support: ✅ Passive only

• Feedback Quality: ⚠️ Low

• Stability: 🟢 Very high

🩰 Use in Dance

• Used for:

  • Heel leads

  • Weight resets

  • Walking or neutral standing balance

• Not useful for balance recovery or reactive poise

“Zone 1,2 is where Carbon weight goes to nap.”

✅ Summary

Zone 1,2 provides superb stability but no torque or feedback, acting like a parking brake for the foot. Great for stillness, but don’t expect action.